James Kearney Wise Jr.

James Kearny Wise Jr.— known and loved by so many as JimBo — was an extraordinary soul. We are deeply blessed to have known him and find comfort in believing he is now a very special angel watching over all of us.

Born in Iowa City, Iowa, to Dr. James K. Wise and Julie Hamill Wise, Jim was the eldest of six children. He naturally became their leader, protector, and unifier. Family was everything to him, and nothing made him happier than bringing everyone together, especially if it involved dancing.

Jim was exceptional in every sense. A gifted athlete and standout student, he served as student body president at Poudre High School while lettering and competing at State Championships in football, wrestling, and track. He followed his father's footsteps to the University of Notre Dame, but after a couple of years, the mountains called him home to Colorado.

A true cowboy at heart, Jim rode bulls, worked as a ranch hand, led dog sled trips, and guided pack trips into the wilderness. He felt most at peace in nature surrounded by animals. This love led him to veterinary medicine at Colorado State University. Those lucky enough to see him with horses knew instantly that Jim was a true horse whisperer. Animals trusted him, just as people did. He had a rare, gentle way of making every being feel safe and understood.

JimBo was larger than life. He loved to laugh and had an incredible gift for making everyone feel special. Long before his younger siblings were old enough to step foot in a bar, Jim (along with his dad) was sneaking them in — strictly to dance. Because of JimBo, cowboy dancing became a cherished family tradition that continues today, with dozens of nieces and nephews still benefiting from his love of music, movement, and pure joy.

At 22, Jim's life changed forever in a severe automobile accident that many at the scene did not believe he would survive. But Jim's strength, combined with his parents' unwavering love and determination, kept him here. For nearly 52 more years, he continued to shine his bright, unmistakable light on everyone he encountered.

Jim exceeded every medical expectation. For nearly five decades, he received love and care from his parents, siblings, extended family, and dear friends. With the support of remarkable practitioners at Foothills Gateway, Imagine!, Mosaic, and other facilities, and devoted caregivers including the Biehler and Dolma families, Jim continued to surprise and inspire us. After years in a coma, he began singing songs, then reading everything in sight. Despite profound neurological trauma, Jim never lost his sense of humor or his perfectly timed, hilarious one-liners. And when words were hard to come by, Jim could say it all with his expressive, legendary eyebrows.

Jim's mother, Julie, was truly an angel on earth—just as we believe Jim was. Even in her own pain, she comforted her children, reminding them that God has a plan, and encouraging them to recognize how profoundly Jim touched lives throughout his journey.

JimBo lived fully, loved deeply, and left an indelible mark on everyone fortunate enough to know him. His legacy lives on in laughter, music, dance, kindness, and the countless lives he touched simply by being himself.

We love you, JimBo. Thank you for the joy, the lessons, and the light. 💙

Jim is survived by his siblings Jane Wise-Gronewoller, Joe Wise, Julie Ryan, Ann Ghent, and Susan Wise, along with their families and many nieces and nephews who continue to dance and laugh because of him.

A Celebration of Life will be held on May 1. The Rosary will begin at 1:30 p.m. at Saint Joseph’s Catholic Church, followed by Mass at 2:00 p.m. A gathering for stories, remembrance, and fellowship will take place at 3:30 p.m. at the Fort Collins Country Club.